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Three Kings #1
Homecoming King
Rex "TW" McMurtry’s perpetual single-hood wouldn't bother him so much if all his ex-girlfriends didn't keep marrying the very next person they dated, especially when so many of those grooms are his closest friends. He may be a pro-football defensive end for the Chicago Squalls, but the press only wants to talk about how he's always a groomsman and never a groom. Rex is sick of being the guy before the husband, and he’s most definitely sick of being the best man at all their weddings.
Bartender Abigail McNerny is the gal-pal, the wing-woman, the she-BFF. She's dated. Once. And once was more than enough. Privy to all the sad stories of her customers, ‘contentment over commitment’ is her motto, and Abby is convinced no one on earth could ever entice her into a romantic relationship . . . except that one guy she’s loved since preschool.
The guy who just walked into her bar.
The guy who doesn’t recognize her.
The guy who is drunk and needs a ride home.
The guy who has a proposition she should definitely refuse.
Bartender Abigail McNerny is the gal-pal, the wing-woman, the she-BFF. She's dated. Once. And once was more than enough. Privy to all the sad stories of her customers, ‘contentment over commitment’ is her motto, and Abby is convinced no one on earth could ever entice her into a romantic relationship . . . except that one guy she’s loved since preschool.
The guy who just walked into her bar.
The guy who doesn’t recognize her.
The guy who is drunk and needs a ride home.
The guy who has a proposition she should definitely refuse.
360 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 14, 2021
About the author
Penny Reid
94 books21.5k followersSign up for the newsletter of awesome: www.pennyreid.ninja/newsletter
Penny Reid is the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and USA Today bestselling author of the Winston Brothers and Knitting in the City series. She used to spend her days writing federal grant proposals as a biomedical researcher, but now she writes kissing books. Penny is an obsessive knitter and manages the #OwnVoices-focused mentorship incubator / publishing imprint, Smartypants Romance. She lives in Seattle Washington with her husband, three kids, and dog named Hazel.
FOLLOW PENNY:
Facebook: www.facebook.com/pennyreidwriter
Twitter: www.twitter.com/reidromance
Instagram:www.instagram.com/reidromance
Just Released:
October 20, 2022: Folk Around and Find Out, Good Folk: Modern Folktales, Book 2
Upcoming Releases:
December 13, 2022: Drama King, Three Kings Series, Book 2
Currently Working On:
2023: Pride and Dad Jokes, Ideal Man, Book 1
Penny Reid is the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and USA Today bestselling author of the Winston Brothers and Knitting in the City series. She used to spend her days writing federal grant proposals as a biomedical researcher, but now she writes kissing books. Penny is an obsessive knitter and manages the #OwnVoices-focused mentorship incubator / publishing imprint, Smartypants Romance. She lives in Seattle Washington with her husband, three kids, and dog named Hazel.
FOLLOW PENNY:
Facebook: www.facebook.com/pennyreidwriter
Twitter: www.twitter.com/reidromance
Instagram:www.instagram.com/reidromance
Just Released:
October 20, 2022: Folk Around and Find Out, Good Folk: Modern Folktales, Book 2
Upcoming Releases:
December 13, 2022: Drama King, Three Kings Series, Book 2
Currently Working On:
2023: Pride and Dad Jokes, Ideal Man, Book 1
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December 14, 2021
★★ NOW AVAILABLE! ★★
It's here! Today is the day! Homecoming King is ALIVE all across the internets. I hope you've prepared for shenanigans and tomfoolery. Rex and Abby are here!
★ ★ Reserve your copy today ★ ★
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★ ★ BLURB ★ ★
Rex "TW" McMurtry’s perpetual single-hood wouldn't bother him so much if all his ex-girlfriends didn't keep marrying the very next person they dated, especially when so many of those grooms are his closest friends. He may be a pro-football defensive end for the Chicago Squalls, but the press only wants to talk about how he's always a groomsman and never a groom. Rex is sick of being the guy before the husband, and he’s most definitely sick of being the best man at all their weddings.
Bartender Abigail McNerny is the gal-pal, the wing-woman, the she-BFF. She's dated. Once. And once was more than enough. Privy to all the sad stories of her customers, ‘contentment over commitment’ is her motto, and Abby is convinced no one on earth could ever entice her into a romantic relationship . . . except that one guy she’s loved since preschool.
The guy who just walked into her bar.
The guy who doesn’t recognize her.
The guy who is drunk and needs a ride home.
The guy who has a proposition she should definitely refuse.
***
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June 19, 2022
5 stars
My goodness, I don't think I could have loved this book more. I was feeling myself falling into a bit of a book slump with my last two reads, but this pulled me right out of it. Penny Reid really delivered with Homecoming King.
Abby and Rex meet at the bar Abby works at, but that's not where their story begins. They went to school together and Abby had the biggest crush on Rex. Now, a decade after they've graduated high school, they run in to each other. Rex doesn't recall who Abby is but she could't forget him if she tried. Not just because of her crush, he's also a professional football player.
Rex has a reputation for being the guy girls date before they settle down with the love of their lives. Abby was burned by an ex a long time a go and isn't interested in dating, even though she's always had a thing for Rex. I was curious to see what would happen with these two and when I realized this was a marriage of convince/fake dating book I was so thrilled. I adore this troupe!
I loved watching Rex and Abby fall for one another. It was definitely a friends to lovers slow burn in the best way. Penny always writes the best humor-laden romances and this one was not only funny, but had loads of heart.
My goodness, I don't think I could have loved this book more. I was feeling myself falling into a bit of a book slump with my last two reads, but this pulled me right out of it. Penny Reid really delivered with Homecoming King.
Abby and Rex meet at the bar Abby works at, but that's not where their story begins. They went to school together and Abby had the biggest crush on Rex. Now, a decade after they've graduated high school, they run in to each other. Rex doesn't recall who Abby is but she could't forget him if she tried. Not just because of her crush, he's also a professional football player.
Rex has a reputation for being the guy girls date before they settle down with the love of their lives. Abby was burned by an ex a long time a go and isn't interested in dating, even though she's always had a thing for Rex. I was curious to see what would happen with these two and when I realized this was a marriage of convince/fake dating book I was so thrilled. I adore this troupe!
I loved watching Rex and Abby fall for one another. It was definitely a friends to lovers slow burn in the best way. Penny always writes the best humor-laden romances and this one was not only funny, but had loads of heart.
December 21, 2021
I should have loved this. Favorite author writing a slow burn, marriage of convenience (I adore this trope if done well), but while reading this I kept going back to other book, The Wall of Winnipeg and Me. And that's where lie the problem for me. This story felt like Reid had borrowed ideas from other books from this genre, blended them together, and wrote this book. While I enjoyed read this but I have read better and I expect more from Ms. Reid.
January 14, 2023
4.25 Stars
Read this book and you get a TWO IN ONE benefit because: if “The Wall of Winnipeg and Me” plus “Kulti” had a love child, Homecoming King would be it. Except, without the “enemies” dynamic. These characters are just not built that way, but I’d say they’d still manage to get you hooked on their romance because ✨IT’S JUST THAT GOOD✨.
Rex McMurtry (H) is a pro-football player for the Chicago Squalls (I take it this is not a real American NFL team?) who’s been dubbed as Training Wheels (TW) for the reason that every single woman he’s dated always ends up marrying one of his buds. Meanwhile, Abigail McNerny (h) is a bartender who’s sworn off dating, but she used to have a crush on Rex. Now that he’s barged in on her life with an offer she can’t refuse and they get to know each other more, the feelings are threatening to resurface.
[🚨🚨🚨] This is my FIRST favorite book of the year, and I’m too joyous basking in the glory of it to be considerate about filtering and sorting out what’s spoiler and what’s not. You have all you need to know in that opening paragraph. So, GO READ THIS BOOK, and stop indulging in my gushing unless you don’t mind being SPOILED. [🚨🚨🚨]
CHARACTERS
— Rex
Most folks thought he was taciturn and aloof, but when it mattered, and if you were paying close attention, he could be such a gentle giant.
Gah, this man (of my dreams)! He was such a “taciturn grumpypants with massive mood swings” as per Abby’s description, but beneath it all he was a ☺sOFTie☺ and somewhat 😭misunderstood😭. The press humiliated him for his “TW” reputation when in reality he was just really good at matchmaking. All his dates ended up getting hitched to his friends because he “recommended” them to his buds after much thoughtful observation on his part.
Also, gosh you’d never find a more generous fake husband! He was so accommodating with Abby in their prenup. He was a closed off H who could be hard to get a read on, and this book was told in (1st person) Abby’s POV. While adding his POV would be beneficial, it didn’t feel like it was crucial to do so because in my opinion you could read into his actions, saw hints from Abby’s observation and his best friend’s (Cyrus) divulgence.
— Abby
I’d taken to saying Thank you, it has pockets as a means of dealing with the discomfort caused by unexpected compliments.
Abby was a likeable h (who had ~what I found~ an interesting lifestyle) and somewhat quirky, but not in a “I’m NoT LYke oTHer gIrLs” type of way. She was weird about compliments. She collected ugly quilts for sentimental reasons. She knitted, and she pottered (making pottery)!! She was married once to an older, lying, cheating bastard who left her with huge amount of debt when she was 18, hence her sour disposition on love.
MOST FASCINATINGLY, Both Rex & Abby are over SIX FOOT TALL!!! 😳🤯 Rex is like 6’5 or 6’6, and Abby is 6’1. Can you believe it?!?!? I can’t even imagine how tALL their children are going to be. I’ve never encountered this in a romance before, which is bizarrely refreshing now that I did. And I’ve NEVER felt more like a dwarf in my life (especially since I pride myself in being the tallest among my sisters, and I’m only like 5’3 💀).
ROMANCE: In Which I Basically 🤪REITERATE🤪 the Whole Plot and Give Add On Comments.
I was shooketh because I'd just come face-to-forehead with my elementary, middle, and high school crush.
I really loved Rex & Abby, and the progression of their romance was simply wholesome. 🥰 They drew me in from the very beginning when Rex was having a rough night and unknowingly walked in Abby’s bar. He got himself *sh★tfaced* that Abby ended up having to drive him to her place and take care of him until the morning after. There was so much in that whole encounter that it felt like more than just a meet-cute or a coincidence.
It was raw because you get to see Rex vulnerable, and there was something weighing his mind that drove him to drinking. It was funny because a couple of embarrassing things happened. It was ✨enchanting✨ because the author used that moment to build (romantic) tension. And it was somewhat monumental because here’s Abby meeting her former crush (who was now a celebrity) in person and he was drUnK as a skunk. 🧚♀️
“I want to hire you to marry me.”
The following day, Rex came to Abby with a proposal that she was to be his wife. After a bit of convincing, they were married within the week. From then on, “The Pretending” COMMENCED. Except, there was nothing forced or awkward about it cause they were comfortable with each other, and Idk . . . there was something about watching them together in public that was soothing, but also exciting and felt like letting out a dreamy sigh. 😍
On top of their chemistry and growing sexual tension, Rex & Abby just had this friendly, easy going, and respectful dynamic, and I loved that. Their banter was entertaining. There was a bit of “no communication” period where Rex was keeping his feelings to himself and Abby was being clueless. Frustrated at each other, they contemplated ending the arrangement, but it WASN’T frustrating to read cause the author kept it at a decent pace until they had it out at about the 60% mark.
“[...] If I just magically knew what you were thinking, I’d open up a sideshow act as the omniscient woman!” Yeah, I was yelling, but—dammit—I was angry. And frustrated.
A fierce storm gathered behind his eyes. “Then let me spell it out for you, babe.”
“Please do, husband.”
“I want you.”
I stared at him and waited. When he didn’t continue his thought or add an explanation, just glared at me with defiance, I said, “You want me to what?”
“No, Abby,” he seethed. “I want you.”
After that angry confession, it was like FINALLY all the stars aligned. The angels were chanting “Hallelujah!” The butterflies were doing somersault. 🤸♂️🤸♀️ And there were invisible fireworks above your head popping off like the 4th of July. 🎉👏 I loved that the book was well paced that there was time in that last 40% where you saw the characters be a real couple and show their naUghtY side (meaning they had enthusiastic, creative sex). 🤣
Unfortunately, there was a teeny tiny miscommunication in the third act conflict. It wasn’t anything OTT or dramatic. It was more like a facepalm, teaching moment for the characters, especially the h. There were little else besides the romance. The side characters were lovely, but they didn’t really stood out to me. There was this side plot where Abby’s ex showed up, stalked, and threatened her, but I feel like it was added more to show Rex’s protectiveness than anything else.
“Husband. You are not training wheels, and I am not a placeholder. Okay?”
He nodded solemnly and gathered my cheeks in his palms, his eyes turning hot, purposeful. “You are my place, Abby,” he said firmly. “Never doubt that I will always be yours.”
Concluding Thoughts . . .
Homecoming King was a pleasant surprise. Despite my initial wariness (because of the “crush”), I fell in love with the story almost instantly, and I felt like the biggest, blushing dork reading it cause it was just so sweet, sincere, festive, and full of humor. The romance was cheff’s kiss cause it was a well timed slow burn with good chemistry and tension, and a decent amount of naked times.
Last attempt at tempting you into reading this book:
🌚 Broody, stern, reticent H the likes of Jack Hawthorne (Marriage for One);
🌞 “Damaged or jaded” but spunky, sunshine-y h the likes of MZ’s heroines;
🏈 Sports romance (with TWOWAM & Kulti vibes);
🤵👰 Marriage of convenience (similar to TWOWAM but with different motives);
😚 Old crush to sorta friends to lovers (similar to Kulti but without the age gap);
🤠 H falls first (in my opinion) regardless of h’s crush;
🔥 ;
🎅 Holiday aesthetic (Halloween, Holiday Homecraft Markets, Christmas).
I’m holding off giving this book five stars cause I want to make sure this isn’t just a ~in the moment~ fascination. 🙈 I’ve only read one other book by this author, and (while it was a hit) I don’t want to rush into giving her all my devotion yet LOL before I experience more of her books. So, I’m rounding this down with the intention of revisiting this book in the future (probably during the holiday season) and praying that the magic sticks. 😇
October 29, 2022
4 stars
Bartender Abby doesn’t date. After a very rough first relationship, and then hearing her bar patrons’ woes for years she is convinced she doesn’t want to be in a romantic relationship. But then Rex, her childhood/teen crush walks into her bar after she hasn’t seen him for over a decade. Rex got the nickname training wheels because every woman he ever dated ended up marrying the man they dated after Rex. And so now Rex has a proposition for Abby.
I’m not sure what I expected from this book, but it was unexpected in the best possible way. I went in mostly blind and enjoyed it a lot. Marriage of convenience is one of my favorite romance tropes and this was such a fun take on that. This book was a great mixture of plot and dialogue, I loved when Abby and Rex were together, but I also enjoyed the book when they weren’t.
There’s something really sweet about a romance where your high school crush finally sees you for the person you are. I’m not one for the whole “fantasy” thing that played out in the book but it did really work for this story. Also I think Penny Reid has a thing for limos because this is the second book of hers with a spicy limo scene.
Bartender Abby doesn’t date. After a very rough first relationship, and then hearing her bar patrons’ woes for years she is convinced she doesn’t want to be in a romantic relationship. But then Rex, her childhood/teen crush walks into her bar after she hasn’t seen him for over a decade. Rex got the nickname training wheels because every woman he ever dated ended up marrying the man they dated after Rex. And so now Rex has a proposition for Abby.
I’m not sure what I expected from this book, but it was unexpected in the best possible way. I went in mostly blind and enjoyed it a lot. Marriage of convenience is one of my favorite romance tropes and this was such a fun take on that. This book was a great mixture of plot and dialogue, I loved when Abby and Rex were together, but I also enjoyed the book when they weren’t.
There’s something really sweet about a romance where your high school crush finally sees you for the person you are. I’m not one for the whole “fantasy” thing that played out in the book but it did really work for this story. Also I think Penny Reid has a thing for limos because this is the second book of hers with a spicy limo scene.
June 16, 2022
3.5 stars
This was such an adorable sweet story. It got all the ingredients of a light summer read.
It got the wall of Winnipeg kind of marriage of convenience, grumpy/sunshine, the characters who were just so easy to love, from a high-school crush to being friends to a fake relationship to love, and it’s also a holiday themed romance which I hadn’t realised until I read it. Overall this was just a good easy read.
This was such an adorable sweet story. It got all the ingredients of a light summer read.
Rex (aka Training wheels) is tired of having every girl he dates ending up marrying one of his teammates. That’s when Abigail who he used to go to school with (and who also always had a crush on him) entered his life and we found ourselves in a marriage of convenience situation that we can’t help but enjoy.
It got the wall of Winnipeg kind of marriage of convenience, grumpy/sunshine, the characters who were just so easy to love, from a high-school crush to being friends to a fake relationship to love, and it’s also a holiday themed romance which I hadn’t realised until I read it. Overall this was just a good easy read.
December 19, 2021
when a book has so many ingredients I adore
& it is missing that magic to make it a perfect read...
you have to feel extra disappointed...
especially as this one had a promising start that sadly turned towards " can this just be over!! pretty please"
the annoying heroine was a cherry at the top
& it is missing that magic to make it a perfect read...
you have to feel extra disappointed...
especially as this one had a promising start that sadly turned towards " can this just be over!! pretty please"
the annoying heroine was a cherry at the top
December 14, 2021
This book has just swallowed up my day today; every time I had to set it down I was finagling ways to get back to it again.
It’s essentially a marriage of convenience story but it features all of my other favourite things in it as well - a grumpy, taciturn H, a quirky and witty h who is charmingly naive, mucho drawn out sexual tension and one of my absolutely favourite things, a first person narrative from one character. The fact that underneath all of that quiet, stern exterior he’s all caring with her and only her and has a really filthy mouth is also most welcome.
Ever since I read The Wall of Winnipeg (which this reminds me of in some ways although it is a totally different plot) I’ve craved another story that manages to pack all of that delicious slow burn tension and feels and humour without having an alternating narrator giving you full access to what each character is thinking. It’s such a rare thing. It seems to be the norm for most romances I read to have two narrators and yet I think I miss so many feels with that style of narrative. Here you get a sense of what Rex might be thinking through the prism of Abby’s inner thoughts and observations and it’s such an effective way of getting inside her head and experiencing all of those lovely feels along with her. I’ve had this little happy glow going on reading this today.
This is one book that will be going straight onto my reread shelf for those times when I need a read that will give me all of the feels with low angst, humour and excellent smut.
Complete story. Standalone. Highly recommended and my favourite read from Penny Reid in some time.
*Thanks to the author for my arc.*
It’s essentially a marriage of convenience story but it features all of my other favourite things in it as well - a grumpy, taciturn H, a quirky and witty h who is charmingly naive, mucho drawn out sexual tension and one of my absolutely favourite things, a first person narrative from one character. The fact that underneath all of that quiet, stern exterior he’s all caring with her and only her and has a really filthy mouth is also most welcome.
Ever since I read The Wall of Winnipeg (which this reminds me of in some ways although it is a totally different plot) I’ve craved another story that manages to pack all of that delicious slow burn tension and feels and humour without having an alternating narrator giving you full access to what each character is thinking. It’s such a rare thing. It seems to be the norm for most romances I read to have two narrators and yet I think I miss so many feels with that style of narrative. Here you get a sense of what Rex might be thinking through the prism of Abby’s inner thoughts and observations and it’s such an effective way of getting inside her head and experiencing all of those lovely feels along with her. I’ve had this little happy glow going on reading this today.
This is one book that will be going straight onto my reread shelf for those times when I need a read that will give me all of the feels with low angst, humour and excellent smut.
Complete story. Standalone. Highly recommended and my favourite read from Penny Reid in some time.
*Thanks to the author for my arc.*
January 18, 2022
This was ADORABLE! If you're in the mood for a romance that's sweet, feel-good, and fun, you need to read Homecoming King. It's got a grumpy football player hero, a bartender heroine who used to crush on him back in school, and a marriage of convenience. I legit could not stop smiling while I read this book.
Abby is a bartender who's sworn off romantic relationships after the mess that was her previous marriage. Then in walks the boy she used to love all throughout school, except Rex is all grown up now. He's a professional football player who's had some terrible luck with his own romantic relationships. Every woman he's ever dated ended up marrying the man she met after dating Rex. He's sick and tired of being known as "training wheels" for the women he dates so he concocts the perfect plan to stop the moniker: enter a marriage of convenience with Abby.
I loved Abby and Rex's relationship! Abby is a lovable dork who's still got a her schoolgirl crush on Rex but is trying to be professional/the best fake wife she can be for him. Even though we don't get the hero's POV, you can clearly see Rex slowly fall for Abby and simply adore everything about her, even as she's a little oblivious to his feelings. Both are endearing, lovely characters I enjoyed reading about so much.
Also, I should've realized this was a holiday romance from the cover. I wish I read this a month earlier, but still, it was so good!
Abby is a bartender who's sworn off romantic relationships after the mess that was her previous marriage. Then in walks the boy she used to love all throughout school, except Rex is all grown up now. He's a professional football player who's had some terrible luck with his own romantic relationships. Every woman he's ever dated ended up marrying the man she met after dating Rex. He's sick and tired of being known as "training wheels" for the women he dates so he concocts the perfect plan to stop the moniker: enter a marriage of convenience with Abby.
I loved Abby and Rex's relationship! Abby is a lovable dork who's still got a her schoolgirl crush on Rex but is trying to be professional/the best fake wife she can be for him. Even though we don't get the hero's POV, you can clearly see Rex slowly fall for Abby and simply adore everything about her, even as she's a little oblivious to his feelings. Both are endearing, lovely characters I enjoyed reading about so much.
Also, I should've realized this was a holiday romance from the cover. I wish I read this a month earlier, but still, it was so good!
December 24, 2021
5 Stars!
(ARC provided by Social Butterfly PR)
-“Falling for you was like gravity.”
Abby McNerny is a country girl from Texas. She's twenty eight, enjoys crafting, knitting and works as a bartender in downtown Austin. She was happily single, and no longer dated after making a string of bad decisions in her past. In her limited experience love equaled heartbreak, so she doesn't do commitment or romance. Then the man of her dreams walks into her bar. She's loved Rex McMurtry since preschool. They grew up in the same hometown, and over the years her crush bordered on obsessive. He was the star of all her fantasies, and she was his biggest fan. He was now a super famous pro football player for the Chicago Squalls. She watched his games on tv, but hadn't seen him in person since graduation. When he offers her a proposition she should probably refuse, her life suddenly has more excitement than it's seen in years. He's still just as intoxicatingly handsome, and she's not sure she can resist him. As boundaries are crossed and lines get blurred, will she finally get the fairy tale?
-"You're all my fantasies. Every single one."
-Dear Lord. I can properly die now. Life will never get better than this.
-All I wanted was to be kissed by Rex, to be touched by him.
-I felt like I might burst into flames from wanting him so much.
-I couldn't imagine my life without him now, without all parts of this magnificent man, so gruff and sweet, rough and sexy and perfect. To me, he was perfect.
Homecoming King (Three Kings #1) by Penny Reid is a standalone, slow burn, fake relationship, friends to lovers, sports romance full of witty banter, shenanigans, and amazing chemistry. I couldn't get enough of this quirky, sweet heroine, and her sexy, swoony athlete. This story captivated me from start to finish. After real life got in the way yesterday and I could hardly read, today I didn't even want to break from it to eat my dinner. ;)) I love when a book is so addictive it's hard to step away from it and you can't quit thinking about the characters. Penny Reid has yet again done her magic and created another fabulous series! I'm dying for more, and hoping we get a book for Cyrus! Homecoming King will definitely be in my top reads of 2021!
***NOW AVAILABLE***
https://amzn.to/3s5CNBa
(ARC provided by Social Butterfly PR)
-“Falling for you was like gravity.”
Abby McNerny is a country girl from Texas. She's twenty eight, enjoys crafting, knitting and works as a bartender in downtown Austin. She was happily single, and no longer dated after making a string of bad decisions in her past. In her limited experience love equaled heartbreak, so she doesn't do commitment or romance. Then the man of her dreams walks into her bar. She's loved Rex McMurtry since preschool. They grew up in the same hometown, and over the years her crush bordered on obsessive. He was the star of all her fantasies, and she was his biggest fan. He was now a super famous pro football player for the Chicago Squalls. She watched his games on tv, but hadn't seen him in person since graduation. When he offers her a proposition she should probably refuse, her life suddenly has more excitement than it's seen in years. He's still just as intoxicatingly handsome, and she's not sure she can resist him. As boundaries are crossed and lines get blurred, will she finally get the fairy tale?
-"You're all my fantasies. Every single one."
-Dear Lord. I can properly die now. Life will never get better than this.
-All I wanted was to be kissed by Rex, to be touched by him.
-I felt like I might burst into flames from wanting him so much.
-I couldn't imagine my life without him now, without all parts of this magnificent man, so gruff and sweet, rough and sexy and perfect. To me, he was perfect.
Homecoming King (Three Kings #1) by Penny Reid is a standalone, slow burn, fake relationship, friends to lovers, sports romance full of witty banter, shenanigans, and amazing chemistry. I couldn't get enough of this quirky, sweet heroine, and her sexy, swoony athlete. This story captivated me from start to finish. After real life got in the way yesterday and I could hardly read, today I didn't even want to break from it to eat my dinner. ;)) I love when a book is so addictive it's hard to step away from it and you can't quit thinking about the characters. Penny Reid has yet again done her magic and created another fabulous series! I'm dying for more, and hoping we get a book for Cyrus! Homecoming King will definitely be in my top reads of 2021!
***NOW AVAILABLE***
https://amzn.to/3s5CNBa
October 24, 2022
Can I re read this already? Asking for a friend 👉🏻👈🏻
I loved both MCs 🥺 they were so perfect and damaged. And it ended up being a christmas story, so… no complains from me. Now I want Cyrus to come out NOW!
I loved both MCs 🥺 they were so perfect and damaged. And it ended up being a christmas story, so… no complains from me. Now I want Cyrus to come out NOW!
February 15, 2022
5 STARS!
OMG, my favorite Penny Reid book since Truth or Beard! Fantastic!! And the freaking HOTTEST I've ever read by her. LOVED. THIS!!! The unrequited love trope is definitely one that isn't done enough.
Abby has had a pretty much life-long crush on pro-football player Rex McMurtry. They were in school together from Kindergarten all the way through high school. She's used to admiring him from afar. Rex has all the confidence on the field, but none when it comes to dating and women. Historically, women just want him for a good time, but when it comes to settling down, they end up moving on to one of his teammates.
Imagine Abby's surprise when Rex shows up at her bar, gruff and standoffish as ever. But when he has one too many and has no one to call or no way to get home, Abby takes care of him for the night.
That's the set up and that's all I'll say....
These two were just ADORABLE. I loved their sweet friendship, their banter, and everything that came after. Penny writes some amazing heroes, but Rex is definitely a new fave for me (up there with Drew from Beauty and the Mustache). He was so adorably vulnerable when it came to Abby.
Now, the fake/arranged marriage trope is one that I usually struggle with. I can't take the angst and I usually get super annoyed with the characters. But the execution just worked for me here.
This was such a perfect read. Maybe a bit of a slow burn...maybe? But HELL FIRE did it get HOTT when these two finally hooked up. Can we just have a novella of Abby and Rex playing out their umm, fantasies?
Top Recommendation from me if you like:
- Unrequited love
- Fake marraige trope
- Gruff/insecure pro-football player hero
- Hilarious heroine
- Fantasy role-playing sexy times
I can't wait to read more of this series!
My general feeling after reading this book:
I received an e-ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
"Falling for you was like gravity."
OMG, my favorite Penny Reid book since Truth or Beard! Fantastic!! And the freaking HOTTEST I've ever read by her. LOVED. THIS!!! The unrequited love trope is definitely one that isn't done enough.
Abby has had a pretty much life-long crush on pro-football player Rex McMurtry. They were in school together from Kindergarten all the way through high school. She's used to admiring him from afar. Rex has all the confidence on the field, but none when it comes to dating and women. Historically, women just want him for a good time, but when it comes to settling down, they end up moving on to one of his teammates.
Imagine Abby's surprise when Rex shows up at her bar, gruff and standoffish as ever. But when he has one too many and has no one to call or no way to get home, Abby takes care of him for the night.
That's the set up and that's all I'll say....
These two were just ADORABLE. I loved their sweet friendship, their banter, and everything that came after. Penny writes some amazing heroes, but Rex is definitely a new fave for me (up there with Drew from Beauty and the Mustache). He was so adorably vulnerable when it came to Abby.
Now, the fake/arranged marriage trope is one that I usually struggle with. I can't take the angst and I usually get super annoyed with the characters. But the execution just worked for me here.
"Husband. You are not training wheels, and I am not a placeholder. Okay?"
"You are my place, Abby, he said firmly, then slid his nose along mine, adding quietly, "Never doubt that I will always be yours."
This was such a perfect read. Maybe a bit of a slow burn...maybe? But HELL FIRE did it get HOTT when these two finally hooked up. Can we just have a novella of Abby and Rex playing out their umm, fantasies?
"This is a fantasy of mine, Abby," he said, his lips a hair's breadth from my lips, his voice a rumble. "You're my fantasy."
"Defiling one of Santa’s elves will put you on the naughty list, husband.” Lifting my skirt like he was unwrapping a present, he licked his lips. “Oh, I’m counting on it, Babe.”
Top Recommendation from me if you like:
- Unrequited love
- Fake marraige trope
- Gruff/insecure pro-football player hero
- Hilarious heroine
- Fantasy role-playing sexy times
I can't wait to read more of this series!
My general feeling after reading this book:
I received an e-ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
December 21, 2021
It's not her, it's me...or, maybe it is Penny Reid. In any case, I don't enjoy her writing anymore. The first-person point of view of the heroine is grating and I did not feel a connection or chemistry between the two main characters. I struggled to keep reading this book, and the truth is that I have felt this way about Reid's books for a long time now. I did like a number of her books a lot, but it's been a long time since that happened. So, this is likely to be my last Penny Reid book.
December 23, 2021
Absolutely AWESOME!
I absolutely LOVED this story from beginning to end. Penny Reid has written my perfect story by giving me a perfect romance with imperfect characters, an interesting storyline and a strong belief that everyone has their own *perfect for them* person, out in the wide yonder. I loved that she gave us slight communication issues instead of frustrating ones, intelligent characters who actually consider other people's feelings, and issues that are relevant to a new couple, are dealt with in a thoughtful and considerate way.
The storyline was captivating and I loved the additional characters we are introduced to. While it would be considered a slow-burn romance, I think the intimacy was timed perfectly. Trust, communication and thoughtfulness is the cornerstone of their relationship, which convinced me, they were perfect together. Their belief that they thought the other was 'too good to be true' is something I remember feeling with my Hubby in the early stages of our marriage, and like the story, I realised it was specific to us. It was just that I was perfect for him (faults and all) and he was perfect for me (faults and all).
Homecoming King is the perfect Christmas romance and I will definitely be buying the audio version to revisit every year. I can't wait for more from Penny Reid.
I absolutely LOVED this story from beginning to end. Penny Reid has written my perfect story by giving me a perfect romance with imperfect characters, an interesting storyline and a strong belief that everyone has their own *perfect for them* person, out in the wide yonder. I loved that she gave us slight communication issues instead of frustrating ones, intelligent characters who actually consider other people's feelings, and issues that are relevant to a new couple, are dealt with in a thoughtful and considerate way.
The storyline was captivating and I loved the additional characters we are introduced to. While it would be considered a slow-burn romance, I think the intimacy was timed perfectly. Trust, communication and thoughtfulness is the cornerstone of their relationship, which convinced me, they were perfect together. Their belief that they thought the other was 'too good to be true' is something I remember feeling with my Hubby in the early stages of our marriage, and like the story, I realised it was specific to us. It was just that I was perfect for him (faults and all) and he was perfect for me (faults and all).
Homecoming King is the perfect Christmas romance and I will definitely be buying the audio version to revisit every year. I can't wait for more from Penny Reid.
January 31, 2022
2.5🌟
the H wasn't all that grumpy and broody, he just sucked at communication.
I hate when they assume things or deliberately withhold information without actually asking/having a normal conversation.
youu aren't some 10 year olds, you are grown adults act like one.😤
it was like a cheap knock-off of The Wall of Winnipeg and me, i should've just re-read that one!😤
the H wasn't all that grumpy and broody, he just sucked at communication.
I hate when they assume things or deliberately withhold information without actually asking/having a normal conversation.
youu aren't some 10 year olds, you are grown adults act like one.😤
it was like a cheap knock-off of The Wall of Winnipeg and me, i should've just re-read that one!😤
December 23, 2021
Favorite Quotes:
I’d never slept in twelve-hundred-dollar pajamas and I didn’t think I was ready to pick up the habit. What if I could never go back to oversized T-shirts and sleep shorts after this was all over? I didn’t want to ruin myself with unsustainable luxury.
I can't not buy them, Rex. They deserve a home. They deserve to give love in the manner in which the creator of the quilt intended… And that’s why I have twenty-four quilts.
Santas were in every corner, some danced and sang if you walked by them… I couldn’t even begin to absorb the splendor… She even had that leg lamp from A Christmas Story on the side table in the living room and that bowl of eggnog with the reindeer antlers from Christmas Vacation. The woman was a marvel.
That boy was blinder than a bat with its head up its own ass.
My Review:
I will never tire of Penny Reid’s divinely amusing and smirk-worthy tales. Her style is sweetly salty and deliciously steamy, although this one was a clever slow burn that finally culminated with such volcanic combustion I struggled to catch my breath and felt a trickle of perspiration despite being in the chilly room. The characters were well nuanced, quirky, multi-layered, and highly appealing. I adored them and reveled in their banter, insights, and sharp and witty humor. I am eagerly anticipating more of this new series and curious as to the direction it will be taking.
I’d never slept in twelve-hundred-dollar pajamas and I didn’t think I was ready to pick up the habit. What if I could never go back to oversized T-shirts and sleep shorts after this was all over? I didn’t want to ruin myself with unsustainable luxury.
I can't not buy them, Rex. They deserve a home. They deserve to give love in the manner in which the creator of the quilt intended… And that’s why I have twenty-four quilts.
Santas were in every corner, some danced and sang if you walked by them… I couldn’t even begin to absorb the splendor… She even had that leg lamp from A Christmas Story on the side table in the living room and that bowl of eggnog with the reindeer antlers from Christmas Vacation. The woman was a marvel.
That boy was blinder than a bat with its head up its own ass.
My Review:
I will never tire of Penny Reid’s divinely amusing and smirk-worthy tales. Her style is sweetly salty and deliciously steamy, although this one was a clever slow burn that finally culminated with such volcanic combustion I struggled to catch my breath and felt a trickle of perspiration despite being in the chilly room. The characters were well nuanced, quirky, multi-layered, and highly appealing. I adored them and reveled in their banter, insights, and sharp and witty humor. I am eagerly anticipating more of this new series and curious as to the direction it will be taking.
Read
February 7, 2022If I had known HK would be a(nother) slow burn story only told by the heroine’s pov and reading all those inner monologues!! I wouldn’t have started it…
There was neither chemistry nor connection between Abby and Rex, the story had a slow pace and it definitely had aspects from the Wall of Winnipeg and Me story by MZ...
Dnf @ 24%
There was neither chemistry nor connection between Abby and Rex, the story had a slow pace and it definitely had aspects from the Wall of Winnipeg and Me story by MZ...
Dnf @ 24%
January 8, 2024
Penny Reid once again delivers with her own brand of swoon, sweetness, emotion, and dry humor we adore. she's such a gifted, intelligent writer and her characters reflect that. they're super witty and quirky without being obnoxious. they're completely real and so loveable! Rex and Abby are no exception.
i loved that Abby was super sweet and always cares so much about others and sees Rex the soft, vulnerable, big-hearted man underneath all the gruff exterior he serves most of the time.
their interaction were special from the very beginning and it was nice seeing how their friendship and relationship bloomed, a delicious slow burn that is well paced, happens naturally, and is based on trust and respect. all the longing, gazing, lingering, the flirty banters, and those text messages!! everything were just perfect and i loved every second of their romance<3
this book will be going straight onto my reread shelf for those times when i need a wholesome, feel good, and lighthearted romance. can't wait for the next installment in the series!
i loved that Abby was super sweet and always cares so much about others and sees Rex the soft, vulnerable, big-hearted man underneath all the gruff exterior he serves most of the time.
their interaction were special from the very beginning and it was nice seeing how their friendship and relationship bloomed, a delicious slow burn that is well paced, happens naturally, and is based on trust and respect. all the longing, gazing, lingering, the flirty banters, and those text messages!! everything were just perfect and i loved every second of their romance<3
this book will be going straight onto my reread shelf for those times when i need a wholesome, feel good, and lighthearted romance. can't wait for the next installment in the series!
January 5, 2023
Oh man! I’m awestruck by this book. I absolutely adored Rex and Abbey’s story. It was so unconventional but relatable at the same time.
Rex owns me. He’s so cute and adorable and kind and all in all a sinfully scrumptious man.
Marriage of convenience is by far the best trope of this year. The BEST! Throw in a little mutual pining and it’s the perfect blend.
It was such a painfully superb slow burn I would say this rivals the Spanish love deception. This comparison is not taken lightly.
I feel like her description wasn’t given properly. Maybe I missed it but all I know was that she had red hair, was tall and had bangs. But STILL this didn’t take away from the fact that I fell in love with her character. She had such a good heart and was so funny to me. Her humour resonated with me which, altogether, made it a better read for me.
Enough said.
Rex owns me. He’s so cute and adorable and kind and all in all a sinfully scrumptious man.
Marriage of convenience is by far the best trope of this year. The BEST! Throw in a little mutual pining and it’s the perfect blend.
It was such a painfully superb slow burn I would say this rivals the Spanish love deception. This comparison is not taken lightly.
I feel like her description wasn’t given properly. Maybe I missed it but all I know was that she had red hair, was tall and had bangs. But STILL this didn’t take away from the fact that I fell in love with her character. She had such a good heart and was so funny to me. Her humour resonated with me which, altogether, made it a better read for me.
Enough said.
December 12, 2021
Homecoming King by Penny Reid
‘Rex didn’t stop until my back hit the wall of the bedroom. He then pulled me forward and wrapped me securely in his arms.
I bit my lip and slammed my eyes shut - don’t cry, don’t cry, don’t cry- my throat working to no purpose. I’m not sure how long we stood there in silence, maybe seconds, maybe minutes, but he eventually pulled away and gently cupped my cheeks with his hands.
He didn’t say anything, just looked at me and swallowed thickly. Reflexively, I gripped his large wrists and held on, too overwhelmed to do anything but stare at his eyes and the enigmatic intensity there.’
Welcome to the new era of Penny Reid.
For me, Homecoming King felt like the beginning of something wonderfully different, dazzlingly new, sublimely romantic and seriously captivating.
It still holds author Penny Reid’s trademark perky and quirky signature, that charming comedy flair she presents within her characters. Those zany one liners and endlessly amusing quips are still there. The abundance of heat and passion still blazes throughout. The characters are one hundred percent engaging, funny, lovable and complex. Yet, somehow this story just felt entirely different from any other book Penny has written.
Like the beautiful quilts that Abby collects (excuse me while I tear up remembering that part), this story just wraps around you, cocooning you in love and warmth, cosying into your heart and soul, offering comfort and the belief that people can find the most amazing treasures, in unexpected places, regardless of how carelessly those treasures have been discarded in the past.
Abby was an amazing protagonist to lead us through this simmering, slow-burn love story. Fiercely independent, self-contained and wary, her personal growth from start to finish was exceptionally well written. She learned to trust again, to open herself to possibilities, friendships and above all else - love. She was magnificent. A strong, courageous and truly lovable personality to lead readers through to that happy-ever-after with our handsome and kindhearted hero.
Rex was the perfect grumpy hero, simply because he was so multifaceted, sweet and sexy underneath that brooding exterior. Outwardly gruff, inwardly lonely yet secretly yearning for someone to be his home. Watching those layers peel back slowly, chapter by chapter, as each interaction with Abby brought out his smiles, his laughter, his real self, just made the whole experience incredible.
These two people (at this point, they’re DEFINITELY real people, not just characters) just bring out the best in each other. They champion one another. As well as offering some tender, emotional support, Abby and Rex burn up the page, from that first kiss to the first ‘I love you’ and all the sexy limo action in between, the intensity of their connection is simply fascinating.
‘Rex didn’t stop until my back hit the wall of the bedroom. He then pulled me forward and wrapped me securely in his arms.
I bit my lip and slammed my eyes shut - don’t cry, don’t cry, don’t cry- my throat working to no purpose. I’m not sure how long we stood there in silence, maybe seconds, maybe minutes, but he eventually pulled away and gently cupped my cheeks with his hands.
He didn’t say anything, just looked at me and swallowed thickly. Reflexively, I gripped his large wrists and held on, too overwhelmed to do anything but stare at his eyes and the enigmatic intensity there.’
Welcome to the new era of Penny Reid.
For me, Homecoming King felt like the beginning of something wonderfully different, dazzlingly new, sublimely romantic and seriously captivating.
It still holds author Penny Reid’s trademark perky and quirky signature, that charming comedy flair she presents within her characters. Those zany one liners and endlessly amusing quips are still there. The abundance of heat and passion still blazes throughout. The characters are one hundred percent engaging, funny, lovable and complex. Yet, somehow this story just felt entirely different from any other book Penny has written.
Like the beautiful quilts that Abby collects (excuse me while I tear up remembering that part), this story just wraps around you, cocooning you in love and warmth, cosying into your heart and soul, offering comfort and the belief that people can find the most amazing treasures, in unexpected places, regardless of how carelessly those treasures have been discarded in the past.
Abby was an amazing protagonist to lead us through this simmering, slow-burn love story. Fiercely independent, self-contained and wary, her personal growth from start to finish was exceptionally well written. She learned to trust again, to open herself to possibilities, friendships and above all else - love. She was magnificent. A strong, courageous and truly lovable personality to lead readers through to that happy-ever-after with our handsome and kindhearted hero.
Rex was the perfect grumpy hero, simply because he was so multifaceted, sweet and sexy underneath that brooding exterior. Outwardly gruff, inwardly lonely yet secretly yearning for someone to be his home. Watching those layers peel back slowly, chapter by chapter, as each interaction with Abby brought out his smiles, his laughter, his real self, just made the whole experience incredible.
These two people (at this point, they’re DEFINITELY real people, not just characters) just bring out the best in each other. They champion one another. As well as offering some tender, emotional support, Abby and Rex burn up the page, from that first kiss to the first ‘I love you’ and all the sexy limo action in between, the intensity of their connection is simply fascinating.
October 25, 2022
" Enamorarse de ti era como la gravedad. "
Guau! Realmente no sabia que me estaba perdiendo al no haber leido nada de Penny Reid, pero si todas sus historias son del estilo de Homecoming King, a partir de ahora la tendre muy presente.
Sinceramente cuando empece a leer lo hice con unas expectativas moderadas, no sabia si el estilo de la autora iba a ser de mi agrado ni tampoco si la historia iba a ser tan maravillosa como decian otras personas, por fortuna, no solo la lectura fue fantastica sino que la escritora gano una nueva fan. Me encanto esta primera experiencia con ella.
La novela me resulto muy muy bonita, es de esas historias que te enamoran, no solo al tener una historia de amor hermosa y muy especial sino que ademas los protagonistas se quedan en tu mente durante mucho tiempo, no son nada olvidables ( en el buen sentido ).
Abby es totalmente genial. Me gusto que no fuera un personaje tan tipico y aunque si que tiene algunas cualidades ya vistas en otras protagonistas femeninas, en general me conquisto su personalidad, encima considero que Penny Reid supo darle un toque muy original.
De Rex no llegamos a saber tanto, no me malinterpreten, me gusto como protagonista. Es gruñon, un poco serio y antisocial pero con un fondo bondadoso y adorable, casi como un oso de peluche, y por si todo esa fuera poco, a veces abre la boca y dice cosas tan adorables que me enamore completamente de el. Mi unica pega es que creo que el libro hubiese sido aun mejor de haber tenido su punto de vista, no solo creo que era necesario para conectar mas con el como personaje, sino que ademas la novela hubiese sido aun mas completa, de ahi el que no le ponga las cinco estrellas.
" ..... Y confiarias en mi cuando te digo que estoy locamente enamorado de ti. "
En fin, Homecoming King fue estupendo. Me encanto la historia, el romance, la pluma de Penny Reid, y sobre todo me conquisto lo refrescante que me parecio la lectura. No pude soltarlo hasta que llegue al epilogo.
4.25 Estrellas!!
December 9, 2021
This book... Ahhhh!
I hadn't realized it was exactly what I wanted to read until I was well and truly hooked (on page one), and that feeling only got more consuming as I devoured the story, beginning to delightful end. As ever, Penny's characters manage to charm the socks off me because I believe them when they show me who they are - a rare and wonderful thing for made-up people to do. Must have something to do with the rare and wonderful thing that is Penny's imagination, and the skill with which she weaves the words to explain it. It's a delightful book, and I'm so excited for you to read it.
I hadn't realized it was exactly what I wanted to read until I was well and truly hooked (on page one), and that feeling only got more consuming as I devoured the story, beginning to delightful end. As ever, Penny's characters manage to charm the socks off me because I believe them when they show me who they are - a rare and wonderful thing for made-up people to do. Must have something to do with the rare and wonderful thing that is Penny's imagination, and the skill with which she weaves the words to explain it. It's a delightful book, and I'm so excited for you to read it.
December 19, 2021
4.5 Stars ⭐️
March 30, 2022
Imagine having a secret crush on a person since elementary school. You are in your late 20's working as a bartender and in walks your crush. Your crush who is now a famous footballer, and doesn't recognize you, who is fall down drunk, him. While drunk Rex makes a shocking proposition, Abigail's life will never be the same.
Such a fun read, as always Penny Reid writes some of the best characters. I loved all of them in this book. The banter between them was LOL worthy. The road was long for this relationship but such a great ride.
Such a fun read, as always Penny Reid writes some of the best characters. I loved all of them in this book. The banter between them was LOL worthy. The road was long for this relationship but such a great ride.
December 13, 2021
"Falling. It was inescapable. It was like... Falling for you was like gravity".
I’ve been waiting for “Homecoming King” since Penny Reid first told us she was going to write a holiday series. Now, I can definitely say this book was worth the wait!
Homecoming King has it all: fake marriage, holiday aesthetic, grumpy hero who is in fact the softest man on earth, “I-don’t-believe-in-love” heroine who actually just wants someone she can trust and love, fun banter, and swoon-worthy moments.
It’s impossible not to love Rex and Abby. Their interactions were special from the very start and it was amazing to see how their whole relationship was based on trust and respect.
As someone who’s tired of reading about so-called adults having pointless fights that lead nowhere, I also loved how Rex and Abby always talked things through even if they weren’t used to it. It goes to show how much they cared about each other’s feelings.
Last, Rex and Abby’s growth as individuals was something that made the book stand out to me. It’s nice to see romantic and steamy moments, but it’s even nicer to witness the characters learn more about themselves and start to face their fears because now they have someone they can lean on.
PS: I don’t know if it was the fake marriage trope or Rex’s grumpiness, but this book reminded me a little of “The Wall of Winnipeg and Me” by Mariana Zapata. So if you’re a fan of TWOWAM, you should definitely read “Homecoming King”. You won’t regret it!
*ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review*
I’ve been waiting for “Homecoming King” since Penny Reid first told us she was going to write a holiday series. Now, I can definitely say this book was worth the wait!
Homecoming King has it all: fake marriage, holiday aesthetic, grumpy hero who is in fact the softest man on earth, “I-don’t-believe-in-love” heroine who actually just wants someone she can trust and love, fun banter, and swoon-worthy moments.
It’s impossible not to love Rex and Abby. Their interactions were special from the very start and it was amazing to see how their whole relationship was based on trust and respect.
As someone who’s tired of reading about so-called adults having pointless fights that lead nowhere, I also loved how Rex and Abby always talked things through even if they weren’t used to it. It goes to show how much they cared about each other’s feelings.
Last, Rex and Abby’s growth as individuals was something that made the book stand out to me. It’s nice to see romantic and steamy moments, but it’s even nicer to witness the characters learn more about themselves and start to face their fears because now they have someone they can lean on.
PS: I don’t know if it was the fake marriage trope or Rex’s grumpiness, but this book reminded me a little of “The Wall of Winnipeg and Me” by Mariana Zapata. So if you’re a fan of TWOWAM, you should definitely read “Homecoming King”. You won’t regret it!
*ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review*
January 3, 2022
Oh my! This is Penny Reid entering a new era and an amazing gateway book for those who aren't familiar with this author yet.
This is a cosy wintery read that is the perfect side dish to Christmas time, while not necessarily being a Holiday Romance.
Bartender Abigail McNerny has had terrible luck in her previous relationship. She's now living her very predictable life and does not need any complications, especially of the romantic type. That's when Rex (aka TW) enters her bar. Rex is a pro-footballer for the Chicago Squalls, but more than that, he's the guy Gail has had a crush all throughout middle school and high school. Now, he wants to make her a proposition, he needs a wife, asap, and Gail is perfect for the job.
I love a good arranged marriage trope, but what happens here is what Penny does best - creating multifaceted characters that feel like your close friends. The banter is spot on, their chemistry is crackling, and the overall feel of the book is a balm to your soul with the trifecta of being witty, charming and hilarious.
A must-read for all.
Thank you so much to Social Butterfly PR and Penny Reid for sending me an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This is a cosy wintery read that is the perfect side dish to Christmas time, while not necessarily being a Holiday Romance.
Bartender Abigail McNerny has had terrible luck in her previous relationship. She's now living her very predictable life and does not need any complications, especially of the romantic type. That's when Rex (aka TW) enters her bar. Rex is a pro-footballer for the Chicago Squalls, but more than that, he's the guy Gail has had a crush all throughout middle school and high school. Now, he wants to make her a proposition, he needs a wife, asap, and Gail is perfect for the job.
I love a good arranged marriage trope, but what happens here is what Penny does best - creating multifaceted characters that feel like your close friends. The banter is spot on, their chemistry is crackling, and the overall feel of the book is a balm to your soul with the trifecta of being witty, charming and hilarious.
A must-read for all.
Thank you so much to Social Butterfly PR and Penny Reid for sending me an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
June 8, 2022
“Falling for you was like gravity.”
You might recognize the name Penny Reid from her ever-so-popular Winston Brothers series – or what I more commonly refer to around my house as . . . . .
When I saw Ms. Reid had a new offering up for the taking I was all over it and have been waiting impatiently for my library hold to come around. If you follow me, you might have noticed that I’ve not been imbibing the pornies like I used to. Part of that is due to mood (summers for me = porn and beachy trash / winters = thrillers and not beachy trash), but part of it is also that they alllllll seem to rely on some sort of stupid miscommunication/failure to have a conversation at around the 75-85% marker that makes me want to take my Kindle and just . . . . .
I’m all there for a trope, but good lord the page padding of the break up only to make up at the end is exhausting.
For those of you who share my feelings, let it be known that Penny Reid hears you!
So the story here is full of tropey yum yum. Rex is a professional football player . . . .
Who has earned the moniker “Training Wheels” because every single girl he has ever dated has immediately found her future husband as soon as they end things. After yet another one has bit the dust causing Rex to return to his hometown for the nuptials he decides to go drown his sorrows. And of all the gin joints in all the world, he just so happens to stumble into Abby’s place of employment. Now Rex may not remember Abby, but she’s harbored a crush on him ever since kindergarten. After a 20 years late meet cute involving drunken pukery, Rex makes Abby an offer she can’t refuse. FAKE MARRIAGE!!!!!!! Complete with a hefty payout and a pre-nup covering Abby’s butt should things go South in the hurry. And you know what that means? WUV – TWUE WUV . . . .
“Been together since high school?” “Preschool,” Rex said before I could speak. “She was a fast runner.” He gazed down at me with dazzling pretend adoration. “But I finally caught her.”
I’m giving this one allllll the Stars for the characters’ aforementioned ability to use their words, for not including a whoopsie pregnancy and for the shout-out to the Knitting in the City guys and gals. You done good, Penny Reid.
You might recognize the name Penny Reid from her ever-so-popular Winston Brothers series – or what I more commonly refer to around my house as . . . . .
When I saw Ms. Reid had a new offering up for the taking I was all over it and have been waiting impatiently for my library hold to come around. If you follow me, you might have noticed that I’ve not been imbibing the pornies like I used to. Part of that is due to mood (summers for me = porn and beachy trash / winters = thrillers and not beachy trash), but part of it is also that they alllllll seem to rely on some sort of stupid miscommunication/failure to have a conversation at around the 75-85% marker that makes me want to take my Kindle and just . . . . .
I’m all there for a trope, but good lord the page padding of the break up only to make up at the end is exhausting.
For those of you who share my feelings, let it be known that Penny Reid hears you!
So the story here is full of tropey yum yum. Rex is a professional football player . . . .
Who has earned the moniker “Training Wheels” because every single girl he has ever dated has immediately found her future husband as soon as they end things. After yet another one has bit the dust causing Rex to return to his hometown for the nuptials he decides to go drown his sorrows. And of all the gin joints in all the world, he just so happens to stumble into Abby’s place of employment. Now Rex may not remember Abby, but she’s harbored a crush on him ever since kindergarten. After a 20 years late meet cute involving drunken pukery, Rex makes Abby an offer she can’t refuse. FAKE MARRIAGE!!!!!!! Complete with a hefty payout and a pre-nup covering Abby’s butt should things go South in the hurry. And you know what that means? WUV – TWUE WUV . . . .
“Been together since high school?” “Preschool,” Rex said before I could speak. “She was a fast runner.” He gazed down at me with dazzling pretend adoration. “But I finally caught her.”
I’m giving this one allllll the Stars for the characters’ aforementioned ability to use their words, for not including a whoopsie pregnancy and for the shout-out to the Knitting in the City guys and gals. You done good, Penny Reid.
February 5, 2022
3.5-.75 stars
…somewhere in between.
(⛔️ A little spoilery below at times ⛔️, but I tried to rein it in as much as I could. I couldn’t figure this review out without some. Still feels a little clunky, but oh well…it’s what I thought 💁🏻♀️.)
I’ve been so skittish to try one of PR’s books again, but I’m glad I did. Homecoming King without a doubt is an improvement over my previous first & only other PR. Unlike the previous, HK most things worked & ticked some boxes.
📌 Rex & Abby’s chemistry/banter, especially when the saucy texting 💬 began 😉. So adorkable.
📌 Rex being kind of a cinnamon roll. I wouldn’t call him a straight up cr, but he definitely had some cr qualities.
(Yeah, he was embellishing & I don’t even care, cause I think he wished that was how it was. I swooned 🥰 😂. Oh! & there was nothing pretend about that adoration.)
…& he also looks like JJ Watt in my head…
You’re welcome 😉.
📌 Sort of a slowburn. While it may have dimmed at times through the years apart, Abby’s been carrying a torch for Rex since they were kids, although they were never quite in the same circles. So this reintroduction wasn’t sped through to an early HEA, thank goodness! Although they began crushing on each other gradually with baby steps, yet played it close to the vest around each other…or tried to.
📌 Abby’s quirkiness. Maybe not always on point, but close enough & I certainly chuckled more than once.
📌 Props for not waiting until the last 20% to add the wrinkle of Abby’s crazy ex & rushing through to resolve it at the end. I’m not complaining at all, but it sort of surprised me the BS he pulled after the first incident was kept in the background. I thought for sure there would be more face-to-face havoc.
While the enjoyable aspects clearly edged out problematic ones, they were there as well just the same. Most were minor on their own. It was more the overall combination that stole some shine.
📌 There were a few confusing shifts in tone that didn’t quite make sense to me. Like Abby’s sudden prudish jag late in the plot & how suddenly altered her POV on Rex was. It felt so out of place. I didn’t get it nor did I like the temporary shift in her perception of Rex. She gave me an uncomfortable feeling as if he was suddenly a creep & I just reminded myself he truly WASN’T one. She was just making a mountain out of a molehill.
📌 Cyrus. He puzzled me for a while. I couldn’t get a beat on him. Idk if he was actually a friend to Rex, or foe until the latter stages of HK. Because for a while, I truly couldn’t tell whether he was making a play for Abby behind Rex’s back or not.
📌 the lack of Rex’s POV. I’ve definitely read some great single POV romances(I’m a big fan of several MZ romances after all 😏…among others). So I’m not anti-single POV. Most of the time it wasn’t an issue, but there were several times Rex blanks were not all filled in. So it’s not that a 50/50 share of POV was needed, but as little as 3-5 chapters from him would’ve gone a long way to take care of those I think 🤔.
📌 Abby’s frequent resistance to saying ass or butt may have brought the petulant child out in me. I was like “c’mon Abby. You like his BUTT…his BOOTY…his ASS. A-S-S.” 😂. I know she’s all anti-dating thanks to her crazy ex, but I just don’t think that makes someone age 50 years with all this bottom/backside shtick, especially when you’re admiring someone else’s 😂🤣. I mean hell, I would’ve accepted bum 😂. Idk I suppose a sometimes prudish bartender doesn’t compute 😂.
All of that put together, Homecoming King was a quote-unquote ‘good read’ 😊. I assume Cyrus is next in the series. It’ll be interesting to see see what kind woman snags him. Wonder if she’ll be from Texas too 🤔.
…somewhere in between.
(⛔️ A little spoilery below at times ⛔️, but I tried to rein it in as much as I could. I couldn’t figure this review out without some. Still feels a little clunky, but oh well…it’s what I thought 💁🏻♀️.)
I’ve been so skittish to try one of PR’s books again, but I’m glad I did. Homecoming King without a doubt is an improvement over my previous first & only other PR. Unlike the previous, HK most things worked & ticked some boxes.
📌 Rex & Abby’s chemistry/banter, especially when the saucy texting 💬 began 😉. So adorkable.
📌 Rex being kind of a cinnamon roll. I wouldn’t call him a straight up cr, but he definitely had some cr qualities.
“Been together since high school?”
“Preschool,” Rex said before I could speak. “She was a fast runner.” He gazed down at me with dazzling pretend adoration. “But I finally caught her.”
(Yeah, he was embellishing & I don’t even care, cause I think he wished that was how it was. I swooned 🥰 😂. Oh! & there was nothing pretend about that adoration.)
…& he also looks like JJ Watt in my head…
You’re welcome 😉.
📌 Sort of a slowburn. While it may have dimmed at times through the years apart, Abby’s been carrying a torch for Rex since they were kids, although they were never quite in the same circles. So this reintroduction wasn’t sped through to an early HEA, thank goodness! Although they began crushing on each other gradually with baby steps, yet played it close to the vest around each other…or tried to.
📌 Abby’s quirkiness. Maybe not always on point, but close enough & I certainly chuckled more than once.
📌 Props for not waiting until the last 20% to add the wrinkle of Abby’s crazy ex & rushing through to resolve it at the end. I’m not complaining at all, but it sort of surprised me the BS he pulled after the first incident was kept in the background. I thought for sure there would be more face-to-face havoc.
While the enjoyable aspects clearly edged out problematic ones, they were there as well just the same. Most were minor on their own. It was more the overall combination that stole some shine.
📌 There were a few confusing shifts in tone that didn’t quite make sense to me. Like Abby’s sudden prudish jag late in the plot & how suddenly altered her POV on Rex was. It felt so out of place. I didn’t get it nor did I like the temporary shift in her perception of Rex. She gave me an uncomfortable feeling as if he was suddenly a creep & I just reminded myself he truly WASN’T one. She was just making a mountain out of a molehill.
📌 Cyrus. He puzzled me for a while. I couldn’t get a beat on him. Idk if he was actually a friend to Rex, or foe until the latter stages of HK. Because for a while, I truly couldn’t tell whether he was making a play for Abby behind Rex’s back or not.
📌 the lack of Rex’s POV. I’ve definitely read some great single POV romances(I’m a big fan of several MZ romances after all 😏…among others). So I’m not anti-single POV. Most of the time it wasn’t an issue, but there were several times Rex blanks were not all filled in. So it’s not that a 50/50 share of POV was needed, but as little as 3-5 chapters from him would’ve gone a long way to take care of those I think 🤔.
📌 Abby’s frequent resistance to saying ass or butt may have brought the petulant child out in me. I was like “c’mon Abby. You like his BUTT…his BOOTY…his ASS. A-S-S.” 😂. I know she’s all anti-dating thanks to her crazy ex, but I just don’t think that makes someone age 50 years with all this bottom/backside shtick, especially when you’re admiring someone else’s 😂🤣. I mean hell, I would’ve accepted bum 😂. Idk I suppose a sometimes prudish bartender doesn’t compute 😂.
All of that put together, Homecoming King was a quote-unquote ‘good read’ 😊. I assume Cyrus is next in the series. It’ll be interesting to see see what kind woman snags him. Wonder if she’ll be from Texas too 🤔.
December 16, 2021
4.5 stars
Penny Reid doesn’t disappoint with her writing and endearing characters, you can't help but love. Abby and Rex story is slow burn marriage of convenience and enjoyed their romance from beginning to end. It's was giving vibes of The Wall of Winnipeg and Me and Billy Winston and Scarlet from Beard With Me.
This is fantastic start if new series and I can't wait for more.
Penny Reid doesn’t disappoint with her writing and endearing characters, you can't help but love. Abby and Rex story is slow burn marriage of convenience and enjoyed their romance from beginning to end. It's was giving vibes of The Wall of Winnipeg and Me and Billy Winston and Scarlet from Beard With Me.
This is fantastic start if new series and I can't wait for more.
April 28, 2023
It was... so good :')
I might be a touch bias as I don't believe Penny could ever write anything bad... ever. But seriously, reading Rex and Abby's story was pure satisfaction. It was nice ending this crappy year with a wholesome, feel good, lighthearted book.
I might be a touch bias as I don't believe Penny could ever write anything bad... ever. But seriously, reading Rex and Abby's story was pure satisfaction. It was nice ending this crappy year with a wholesome, feel good, lighthearted book.
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